NCW forms fact-finding panel on women being sold in marriages

Amid concerns over the alleged trafficking and exploitation of women in the name of marriage, the National Commission for Women (NCW) has constituted a five-member fact-finding team to examine the practice of ‘Paro’ or ‘Molki’ marriages in Mewat region, particularly in Nuh district of Haryana.

‘Paro’ or ‘Molki’ refers to a practice in which women, often from economically vulnerable communities in other States, are brought through intermediaries and married to men in the region, allegedly involving monetary transactions with brokers or the woman’s family.

The Commission has taken cognisance of reports alleging that women are brought to the region and married off in exchange for money. In some reported cases, women are allegedly resold and subjected to repeated abuse and exploitation, raising serious concerns over inter-State trafficking and violations of their rights, dignity and safety.

‘Dignity, not transaction’

“A woman cannot be bought, sold or treated as a commodity in the name of marriage. Marriage is a relationship of dignity and equality, not a transaction. The concerns surrounding ‘Paro’ or ‘Molki’ marriages are serious and require a fact-based examination. The NCW will ensure that the voices, rights and dignity of women affected by this practice are not overlooked. If trafficking, exploitation or systemic failures are found, the Commission will recommend firm and effective measures to prevent their recurrence,” said NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar.

The fact-finding team comprises retired IPS officer P.M. Nair, former Director General of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF); ex-IPS officer B.K. Sinha, former Director General of Police, Haryana; Seema Singh, Associate Professor, Delhi University; Tripti Bhoir, filmmaker and actor; and Manmohan Verma, law officer, NCW.

The team will examine the prevalence, nature and functioning of the Paro/Molki practice, including the role of intermediaries and possible trafficking networks operating across State borders. It will also look into concerns relating to legal identity, inheritance and other entitlements of women, violence and exploitation, child marriage, social stigma and access to justice and State services.

Views of stakeholders

The panel will undertake an on-the-spot inquiry in Nuh/Mewat and other locations, as considered necessary, and interact with survivors, local residents, police and civil administration officials, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

It has been asked to submit its report to the Commission within 10 working days of its constitution, along with recommendations for preventing the recurrence of such practices and strengthening safeguards for women affected by them, according to an official statement.